PM Phuc congratulated Thailand on its adoption of a new Constitution and expressed his belief that Thailand would successfully hold the general election next year, consolidating the country’s social stability and economic development and contributing to the building of the ASEAN Community.

The two leaders discussed ways to speed up the implementation of agreements reached between the two countries during PM Phuc’s visit to Thailand in August in order to make the Vietnam-Thailand Strategic Partnership more effective and sustainable.

To this end, they agreed to soon organise the third Meeting of the Joint Committee for Bilateral Cooperation in Thailand in preparation for the fourth Joint Cabinet Retreat in early 2018.

The two PMs consented to enhance cooperation in rice production and foster transport connectivity among Vietnam, Thailand and others in the Mekong sub-region.

PM Phuc proposed Thailand better facilitate sales of made-in-Vietnam goods in the Thai market and encourage Thai investors to do business in Vietnam.

The Vietnamese PM also expected Thai authorities to settle issues related to Vietnamese fishermen and fishing boats in the spirit of humanity and suggested the two countries’ marine law enforcement forces to increase cooperation efficiency.

PM Prayuth Chan-ocha informed his host that Thai Vietjet Air has obtained a permit to operate in Thailand, confirming that he will create favourable conditions for the opening of more air routes connecting the two nations’ tourist destinations.

He said Thailand wants to foster cooperation between Thai navy and Vietnam coast guard forces in handling violations and emerging issues at sea.

The two PMs also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, agreeing that peace, stability and freedom of navigation in the region should be maintained.-VNA